elefun

I have some mommy goals for myself every day that include - not turning on the tv (except in the car) and reading at least 5 books to both J and B. I can't say that I get there every day, but I try. The tv goal has made me realize that for me, I use the tv when I'm tired/lazy or need a "babysitter". And I don't think tv is bad and I'm thankful for an episode of Sesame Street if it means I get to take a shower when I desperately need one or have a phone call without constant interruptions, it just seems that tv is one of those things that is hard to keep in moderation. It's kind of like opening a bag of chocolate chips and trying to just eat a few ...at least for me it is :)

My tv goal is made easier by the fact that we don't have cable. No cable, it's true. We do have a TiVo (thank you Ellen for making me aware of this amazing device!) so can record regular tv, which for J includes Sesame Street and Barney. I am also stubborn and don't mind having multiple conversations regarding the fact that we aren't turning the tv on anymore today ...

So, what do we do if we don't watch tv? Today we played inside because it was so stinkin' hot (heat index 110). J asked if we could play with our Elefun game this afternoon and that kept us both entertained for a while. It's a game my sisters and I had as kids and my mom found one and got it for J. We don't really play the game - in fact I'm not even sure what the rules are - but it's fun without them.

Simply fill up the elephant.

Turn elephant on and watch the butterflies fly out of the trunk.

Run around like crazy gathering up the butterflies.

And repeat.

PS - Saw Elefun at Kohl's the other day.

PPS - Clothes are optional for children 2 and under at our house due to the following: J has learned how to take off her clothes by herself and B is constantly spitting up and/or pooping on hers :)